The men and women of the BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301) have once again proved that they are genuine PCG – patriotic, compassionate, and God-fearing – as they humbly received a tribute from the Philippine Embassy in Libya for the important role they played during the Siege of Tripoli early this year.

Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Elmer Cato presented plaques of commendation to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) men and women of the BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301) led by Commander Albert Ferre, as well as to the PCG Liaison Team, through Commodore Alan Victor Dela Vega, LTJG Kate Royce Desusa, and LTJG Lennie Marie Pelaez.

In his remarks, Chargé d’Affaires Cato said the diversion of the BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301) to Malta while on its way to the Philippines provided the Embassy and the Filipino community with a way out at the height of the fighting for control of the Libyan capital.

The PCG vessel was stationed in Malta for almost three months as it awaited orders to proceed to Tripoli and eventually evacuate Filipinos to Tunisia.

The BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301) made history by becoming the first Philippine government vessel to operate in North Africa and the Mediterranean in support of an evacuation mission.